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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Guide to Hayward

American food spots

American food and salads that focus on fresh, recognizable ingredients instead of the heavy, processed options that usually fill the plate.

Based on 567 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Lemon Crab image 1
Lemon Crab image 2
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Cajun restaurant

Small dining area with about seven to nine tables creates a cozy, intimate atmosphere. Nautical theme and 90s music add a distinctive vibe while the space feels family-like and welcoming. The place maintains a quiet, simple environment despite occasional crowding.

Small salads come with sandwiches and feature fresh ingredients. They serve as a light, crisp side alongside curly fries and seafood rolls.

Seafood dishes like the lobster roll and Cajun seafood boil stand out with fresh ingredients and bold flavors. Clam chowder features celery and black pepper, giving it a unique twist.

People are saying

"The food and service here are always incredible."

"The American Food's lemon crab sauce has a good balance of flavors."

"I had a fresh salad with my lobster roll and fries."

Good to know

1

Lemon Crab now charges a 15% service fee for parties of 2.

2

There is a private parking lot available for customers.

3

Takeout options are available at Lemon Crab.

02
Volcano Island image 1
Korean restaurant

Small, unassuming Korean restaurant with limited outdoor seating and no indoor space. Atmosphere feels home-style and super chill, resembling a mom-and-pop shop in a plaza corner. Known for crispy Korean fried chicken and flavorful wings, it operates mostly as a take-away spot.

Large portions come with meals, including a generous serving of cabbage salad. The salad is simple, topped with spicy mayo for flavor.

Chicken wings stand out with their juicy and crunchy texture and a strong, appealing fried chicken aroma. Korean fried chicken and tteokbokki also feature as amazing dishes.

People are saying

"The Korean food here is so crunchy, juicy, and flavorful."

"I thought the chicken wings were the best I ever had."

"The garlic soy salad sauce is light and sweet."

Good to know

1

There is no indoor seating available; it's primarily a take-out restaurant.

2

Expect limited outdoor seating, making carry-out a popular option.

3

The food is ready in about 10-15 minutes after ordering.

03
Straw Hat Pizza image 1
Pizza restaurant

Dark, nostalgic setting with tons of TVs and a huge arcade area keeps energy lively and family-friendly. The vibe recalls early 90s pizza spots with local craft beers on tap adding to the atmosphere. Frequent sports and event screenings create a social, casual environment.

Freshness stands out with a wide variety at the salad bar. Options come with lunch specials and buffet access, making salads a solid choice alongside pizza.

Chicken wings come in lemon garlic and Cajun flavors, cooked fresh without freezer taste. Potato wedges and a king-size garlicky chicken add variety to the American food options.

People are saying

"I thought the pizza here was delicious with great flavors."

"This American food has the freshest ingredients and perfect crust."

"The salad bar here is amazing and fresh."

Good to know

1

Expect longer wait times during UFC fights and popular sports events.

2

The restaurant offers a $1 pint with the purchase of a medium or large pizza.

3

Wine Wednesdays feature special deals on select wines.

04
Sourdough & Co. image 1
Sandwich shop

Open, airy space buzzes with activity and a classy, inviting atmosphere. Sandwiches feature exceptional sourdough bread with fresh, quality ingredients. Prices run high, and the environment carries a noticeable smoky aroma from the pizza oven.

Salads come alongside flatbread pizzas and soups. They offer a solid option beyond sandwiches. The salads are decent and fit well with the menu variety.

Clam chowder comes daily and often served in a sourdough bread bowl. Smoked brisket and chicken cholula specials offer rich, bold flavors alongside classic sandwiches.

People are saying

"The sandwiches here are fresh and delicious."

"The American food clam chowder in a bread bowl is creamy and delicious."

"I loved their pesto and garlic turkey sandwich."

Good to know

1

Expect to pay over $30 for a sandwich, soup, and soda.

2

Pick-up is easy and the store is well-maintained.

3

Parking is easy to find near the restaurant.

05
Sizzler image 1
Restaurant

Old-school design creates a warm and welcoming atmosphere with a relaxing, quiet vibe. Comfortable seating supports an intimate setting for couples and families. A salad bar stands out as a key feature, offering a variety of options that complement the overall experience.

Endless salad bar offers variety with fresh ingredients and frequent replenishment. Includes unlimited shrimp, steak, and fried chicken options alongside garlic toast, soup, and soft serve ice cream.

The menu features a salad bar with chicken wings, tacos, and mini corn dogs. The fried chicken stands out as a popular choice. Prime rib hamburger comes with garlic mashed potatoes, and clam chowder is also available.

People are saying

"The salad bar had a great variety and was well worth the price."

"The salad bar had a great variety and was outstanding."

"The American Food salad bar had a great variety and was always fresh."

Good to know

1

Sizzler offers great senior meal prices.

2

The salad bar is all-you-can-eat and replenished often.

3

Expect a long wait on Sundays after church hours.

06
Famous Dave's Bar-B-Que image 1
Barbecue restaurant

Rustic decor and comfortable bar area create a quiet atmosphere with music at conversation level. Tables come with paper towels for messy meals, enhancing convenience. The vibe suits large parties and families seeking a relaxed barbecue experience.

Salads feature a grilled chicken Caesar with very good Caesar dressing and a chopped salad noted for its flavor. Side salads come with ranch dressing that stands out even to those who usually avoid ranch.

Brisket and ribs come juicy and full of flavor, often paired with Devil's Spit BBQ sauce. Cornbread stands out as a unique, must-try item that complements the hot links and corn on the cob well.

People are saying

"Brittany's service made our ribs experience so enjoyable."

"Brittany's attentive service made our American Food experience so enjoyable."

"Brittany's service was amazing from the moment we walked in."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4 PM to 10 PM on weekdays.

2

Parking for takeout is available in the back of the building.

3

The sampler plate is large enough for two people.

07
Khao Hom image 1
Thai restaurant

Restaurant combines modern decor with Thai cultural elements in a bright, spacious setting. Atmosphere grows loud and echo-y as it fills, making conversation difficult. Space suits both intimate dinners and group gatherings, with dog-friendly policy.

Papaya salad stands out with its adjustable spice level and fresh flavors. Thai salad offers a crisp, vibrant taste that pairs well with other dishes.

Fried chicken stands out with a delicious, just-right flavor. Ribs, egg Benedict, and French toast add variety, while Roti bread and chicken wings offer tasty, finger-licking options.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing, especially the Pad Thai and chicken."

"The chicken and waffles here are the best I've ever had."

"I loved the amazing flavors of the Thai salad."

Good to know

1

There is a parking lot close by, but street parking can be hard.

2

Reservations are recommended, especially for larger groups.

3

A party of five automatically receives a 20% gratuity after tax.

08
Emil Villa's California BBQ image 1
Barbecue restaurant

Barbecue restaurant offers a classic diner atmosphere with a casual vibe and spartan decor. The place feels comfortable and calm despite some heat during visits. Known for smoked ribs served with unique sauces, it attracts those seeking hearty, high-quality barbecue.

Salads come with crispy and fresh ingredients including corn and baked potato. Croutons get added by hand, sometimes without gloves.

Ribs come in beef and pork varieties alongside chicken and brisket. The menu includes a Philly Cheesesteak style sandwich with tri-tip, grilled cheese, peppers, and onions. Desserts feature an apple pie cheesecake.

People are saying

"These BBQ ribs are the best in town."

"I found the breakfast here to be fresh and tasty."

"This American food's BBQ ribs are tender and tasty."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers a senior menu with discounted prices.

2

Expect large portion sizes, which may be too much for some diners.

3

The bathroom facilities are clean and well-maintained.

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Hayward, California

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